Hostess - Restaurant
Job Title: Hostess
Department: Food & Beverage
Reports To: Restaurant Manager / Maître D’
Job Summary:
The Hostess is the first and last point of contact for guests visiting the restaurant, setting the tone for their entire dining experience. This role requires a charismatic, organized, and well-presented individual with excellent communication skills. The Hostess is responsible for managing reservations, greeting guests, coordinating seating, and ensuring the smooth flow of the dining room.
Key Responsibilities:
- Guest Reception & Seating:
- Greet all guests upon arrival and departure with a warm, friendly, and professional demeanor.
- Manage the reservation book and seating chart efficiently to maximize table turnover and optimize seating arrangements.
- Escort guests to their tables, present menus, and inform them of their server.
- Manage the waiting list during peak periods, providing accurate wait times and maintaining guest satisfaction.
- Reservation Management:
- Answer telephone calls promptly and handle reservation inquiries, special requests (allergies, celebrations), and cancellations.
- Accurately record all reservation details in the system (e.g., OpenTable, Opera).
- Confirm reservations as per procedure and update the restaurant team on VIP arrivals or special occasions.
- Front Desk Operations:
- Maintain a clean, organized, and inviting hostess stand and entrance area.
- Coordinate with servers and management on table status and guest flow.
- Assist in managing coats or belongings for guests if required.
- Thank guests as they leave and invite them to return.
- Communication:
- Maintain clear and constant communication with the service and management teams.
- Handle guest complaints at the front desk with tact and immediately escalate issues when necessary.
Qualifications & Experience:
- Pleasant and professional appearance with a welcoming smile.
- Previous experience as a hostess or in a front-facing customer service role, preferably in an upscale restaurant or hotel.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
- Ability to remain calm and courteous under pressure.
- Proficiency in reservation systems and basic computer skills.
- Fluency in English is essential; additional languages are a strong asset.
